The Life of Horatio Lord Nelson

"Affliction is not sent in vain, young man, from that good
God, who chastens whom he loves..."

Horatio Nelson (1758-1805) was undoubtedly Britain's greatest naval leader and perhaps the greatest sea commander of all time.

Although his complex character often made him enemies and led to mistakes in both his public and private life, he was an unrivaled seaman, an original and brave tactician, and a charismatic leader.

Having entered the British Navy at the age of 12, Nelson achieved the rank of captain at the age of 20.

As captain, he was quickly recognized as a magnetic and controversial figure.

Audacious in battle (he once ignored a superior's order to cease action at Copenhagen by putting his telescope to his blind eye and saying he could not see the signal) and winner of some of Britain's greatest victories, Nelson possessed an extraordinary amount dash and courage, thus rendering him one of history's great romantic figures.

Nelson was perhaps the ultimate tragic hero, who died in his hour of triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. He held the position of national hero throughout the 19th century to become one of the best-known figures in British history.

What made him such an effective leader? Many agree that once in command he developed a genuine warmth and care that invoked loyalty, something that went far beyond empathy, duty and personal trust.

HORATIO LORD NELSON (1758 -1805) was a British flag officer in the Royal Navy, noted for his inspirational leadership, superb grasp of strategy, and unconventional tactics, which together resulted in a number of decisive naval victories, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. He was wounded several times in combat, losing the sight in one eye in Corsica and most of one arm in the unsuccessful attempt to conquer Santa Cruz de Tenerife. He was shot and killed during his final victory at the Battle of Trafalgar near the Port City of Cadiz in 1805.

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